Mariah Foley
Staff Writer

Not many people know what it means when people talk about “SAD.” SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder, and is a form of depression that affects thousands of people, specifically during wintertime. The medical term for SAD is ‘light deficiency’, because the long winter nights and decreased light intake in a person’s body has a visible, life-changing effect.

Seasonal depression affects about 10% of the population in Seattle alone, and although it affects everyone, it is more detectable in women, says professor David Avery from University of Washington School of Medicine.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, like other forms of depression, can result in bipolar disorder and even suicide. However, the usual effects of SAD are weight gain, grumpy or sluggish behavior, and lack of motivation.

The best-known way to treat SAD is light therapy, during which one exposes oneself to a “light box” for about a half hour every morning, to stimulate the sunrise. Light therapy increases melatonin production, which is the hormone that allows the body to create circadian rhythms, also known as a sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin supplements are also prescribed to treat light deficiency.

Tryptophan supplements are also used in treating patients with SAD. This drug increases serotonin production. Although it cannot cure light deficiency, it is still used because it makes people feel happier.

For those without the funds or access to medical treatment, there are many simple and even fun ways to improve those ‘Winter Blues’.

1. Stimulate Sunlight

Since SAD is prevalent in gloomy, dark places, take a vacation to a sunny place. Although it might empty your wallet, you could be surprised how a short trip could reset your biological clock, making you more energized and ready to take on the rain.

When there is no way to get your hands on a light box or funds to go to a sunny place, there are still ways to stimulate sunlight to the body and increase melatonin production, such as spending time in a tanning bed. Even though tanning beds get a bad rap, as long as you wear UV-safe tanning lotion and limit your time, you can be surprised at the improvement in your mood.

1.Make your environment brighter

Even if it is overcast, spending time outside can still get your body the light it needs. Those who are depressed in the wintertime should spend more time in daylight, especially in the morning. Take the window seat.

Filling your home with light colors can help you maintain a positive outlook and mood. Opening a window, painting a bedroom, or even wearing bright colors can improve seasonal depression.

1.Keep a schedule and watch your diet

Because of SAD, and decrease in melatonin, the body has a hard time recognizing when it should be tired, hungry, or active. People with SAD tend to crave carbs. A way to maintain a healthy diet and keep your tummy full is to eat more protein and vegetables.

Caffeine and alcohol may seem like a good way to put some pep in your step, but they can make someone with Seasonal Attentive Disorder too on edge and deepen their depression.  A healthier alternative to caffeine and alcohol are herbal teas, which can still supply a person with energy, without the negative affects.

4. Stimulate your body

Exercising more often can stimulate endorphin production, making a person less likely to be depressed, whether it is seasonal or not. Much like exercising, laughter also stimulates endorphins in the brain, which will make a person feel happier.

Even if you do not exhibit the telltale signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder, you can still prevent the winter blues and stay healthy by working a healthy amount of sunlight and exercise into your schedule.